How To Calculate a Move

Moves are calculated either by cubic feet, by the hour, or by pounds. The latter is much less commonly used nowadays.

Cubic Feet is the hight x width x depth of an object. So a box that is (1.5ft x 1.5ft x 1ft) would be a 2.25 cubic foot box. Each item has an average cubic foot measurement. For instance, a queen size bed (including mattress/box spring) will always be approximately 70 cubic feet, whereas your average dining chair is 5 cubic feet. After the entire list of furniture is compiled - you take the total cubic feet and multiply it by a certain price per cubic foot. The price per cubic foot varies A LOT depending on how far you are going or whether there is any packing to be done.

Always make sure you get a contract with a full list of the items before you sign anything.

Local moves normally run between $600 - $1000 for a Studio or small one bedroom and $3000 - $4000 for a 3 bedroom. Although moves do vary tremendously - there are a few componants that can help you understand whether your move will be above the average or below.

• Will you require packing?
  
  • If you require packing, your price will be higher than a standard local move
• Is your move far away?
  
  • If your move is more than an hour away from the pickup, you will probably need to pay extra for the distance. This is normally the case with hourly quotes.
• Do you need to buy boxes?
  • Of course, there is a cost for boxes.
  • However, you can always ask a company if they have a free package for boxes. Very often they'll have a bunch to give out for free.
• Flights of Stairs
  • If you have three or more flights of stairs (and no elevator), you might need to pay a bit extra. Taking furniture up and down stairs is very difficult, and can really affect the amount of time it takes for the move.

Either way - when moving, always make sure to go into a call with a representative with a clear and realistic understanding of what your move could potentially cost.